lesser trefoil
Trifolium dubium
Dubium
About this plant
Trifolium dubium, commonly called lesser trefoil or suckling clover, is a small, low-growing plant with trifoliate (three-part) leaves and small yellow flowers. It is often found in lawns, meadows, and grassy areas. It is valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility naturally. It is sometimes used as ground cover or in wildflower mixes.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Trifolium
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Higher classification
- Fabales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Europe, Western Asia
- Distribution
- Native to Europe and western Asia; widely naturalized in North America and other temperate regions.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -20 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15–25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 4–9
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, sandy soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Generally, fertilizing is not necessary because the plant fixes its own nitrogen. If desired, a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can support growth.
Lesser trefoil is a hardy plant that grows well in various soils and conditions. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It requires minimal care and is drought tolerant once established. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root problems.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Small yellow flowers and clover-like leaves provide a delicate ground cover appearance.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe to have around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Trifolium dubium, also known as lesser trefoil, can cause mild allergic reactions in some people, especially those sensitive to pollen. The main trigger is its pollen, which may cause sneezing or itchy eyes during its flowering season. To reduce exposure, avoid areas with dense growth during peak bloom and consider wearing a mask if you are highly sensitive.
Common problems
Common problems include root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. It may also struggle in heavy shade or very dry conditions without occasional watering.
Uses
Used as ground cover, in lawns, and for soil improvement due to its nitrogen-fixing ability. Also appreciated for its small yellow flowers in naturalized garden settings.
Notes
This plant spreads by seeds and can self-seed easily. It does well in lawns and naturalized areas but may need occasional thinning to prevent overcrowding.